Side Effects of Sumatriptan: An Introduction
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
sumatriptan succinate (
Imitrex®). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If people do develop sumatriptan side effects, they are often minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with sumatriptan. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of sumatriptan side effects with you.)
Serious Sumatriptan Side Effects
Some side effects with sumatriptan are potentially serious and should be reported to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
- Severe chest pain or tightness (see Imitrex and Heart Problems)
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden severe abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Bloody diarrhea
- Changes in vision, including loss of vision
- Seizures
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- Unexplained skin rashes
- Itching
- Hives
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
Taking sumatriptan with certain
antidepressants can increase your risk of a group of dangerous symptoms called serotonin syndrome. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you have the following symptoms of serotonin syndrome:
- Confusion
- Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
- Fast heartbeat (tachycardia)
- Fainting
- Fever
- Sweating
- Muscle spasms
- Difficulty walking
- Diarrhea.
